2010 Jeep Wrangler - Built To Use, Built To Abuse

www.JK-Adventure.com's latest build, Havoc, is a unique JK built from the point of view that you can have a rough and tough JK able to run hardcore trails without breaking the bank, or the Jeep. If needed, this build could be accomplished over time as your budget allowed. So many of us buy a JK and lift it for the looks and then start 'wheeling it and get really into the hobby, and at some point are looking to take it to the next level.

Taking a partially built four-door JK Unlimited that was ready to “take it to the next level,” the crew at JK-Adventure.com (JKA) utilized a few mods already on the JK. These included the front Rubicon locker, 5.13 gears, a 10,000-pound winch, a 4:1 Rubicon T-case, and steel bumpers.

It was decided that a new front Dana 60, although tempting, was not in the budget and for the intended use of the rig, not necessary. Rather, the JKA crew chose to build up the stock Dana 44 instead. They started by trussing it with a T&T Customs truss along with the already installed EVO gussets for axlehousing strength. Next, they installed RCV axleshafts, Tom Woods driveshafts, Poly Performance ball joints, a Rock Krawler aluminum tie rod, and Reid Racing high-steer knuckles to build up the remaining weak parts in the front. This came in much less than a new Dana 60 would have cost. The JKA crew also went with an optional Spyntec locking hub assembly to minimize front vibrations while offering better gas mileage and the ability to unlock the diff if something breaks up front. Running larger 38x13.50R20 Toyo tires also urged them to install PSC's hydro-assist steering kit to help with the added stress on the steering components.

In the rear, a TeraFlex Dana 60 was installed. Most of the stress goes into the rear axle, so JKA felt a Dana 60 was a must to turn the big 38s. TeraFlex's rear Dana 60 is a high-pinion unit and is drilled for both 5-on-5 and 5-on-5.5 bolt patterns. JKA had them install an ARB locker and 5.13 gears along with chromoly axleshafts that come included with the axle. Additionally, Rebel Offroad's slotted high-performance "restraint" brake discs and pads were installed at all four corners to help with stopping the 38-inch Toyo tires, which were mounted to a set of 20x10 Spyderlock bead lock wheels.

JKA wanted to prevent trail damage while still being able to hit the trail hard. MetalCloak fenders and side armor were sourced for this reason. The reinforced structure and removable feature for the fenders, as well as the rear side armor and rear corners sporting LED taillights made MetalCloak an attractive option.

JKA also addressed the B-pillar vulnerability present in four-door JKs. They fabricated what they call the "Exo Rack" for the B-pillar protection and to protect the JK in the event of a rollover. Dominion Offroad added side steps to the stock Rubicon rocker guards to protect the rock rails, rotate around obstacles, and, of course, provide a step.

For suspension, JKA decided that Rock Krawler's 12-inch 2.0 coilover was the way to go up front for overall road and trail performance. They paired that with Rebel Offroad's bolt-on coilover mounts for a great affordable combo. TeraFlex's dual-rate sway bar was chosen to keep the on-road stiffness yet have a flexible sway bar on the trail. They topped off the front with TeraFlex limit straps. At the rear, they installed TeraFlex's 6-inch coil springs and 12-inch-travel Elka shocks to match the improved ride of the front coilovers. For ultimate flex and a smooth on-road ride, JKA went with TeraFlex's long control arms. The TeraFlex 4-inch SpeedBumps were added to provide pre-runner performance on whoops and trails, as well. The rear SpeedBumps were frenched into the frame to fit properly.

When it came to the underpowered stock 3.8L engine, something had to be done. JKA looked into Hemi and LS1 swaps, but that went against their point of view in creating a JK that was in the affordable ballpark. They then researched Superchargers and decided that for the money-to-power-increase ratio and history of performance, they would be able to achieve this with a RIPP Gen2 Stage2 Supercharger. They had it installed at Rebel Offroad and took it out for a spin. It turned a bogged-down JK on 38-inch tires into a fun, peppy Jeep ready for the freeway. JKA also installed an Aeroforce Interceptor gauge to monitor the boost level of the RIPP Supercharger. Considering the added heat from the Supercharger, they also installed a set of Run Cool Hood Louvers.

Although JKA doesn't claim to be done with it, the Havoc JK has been braving the rocks with the big dogs for a while now.